Follow the Wisps [Audra]

As Audra took her turn in the introduction and explanation, Cairo stepped back subtly, ever so slightly putting her farther in front of him, not enough to put her in full spotlight, but giving her room to stand on her own. He’d had a few days of travel with her to study her and see what kind of wolf he was bringing to Valhalla.

Beneath that timid friendliness was a sense of pessimism, as though she might have encountered rough, hard times in her past. Perhaps where she came from packs didn’t allow strangers near, even if they could have used the help.

He watched quietly, smiling at Aurielle’s acceptance of the woman’s staying for the winter, and nodding to himself at the suggestions. Ardyn’s middle sisters were gentle-natured, patient, and friendly. Viv was similar in nature to Audra, if less timid. She wasn’t fond of conflict herself. He made plenty of effort to engage with his sister and spend time with her between duties. Though there was an open place for him in the Seat, he still occupied his own alcove, dug by their mother, near his sisters.

Legacy was a new face, and he had yet to meet her directly, but from what he’d heard, she was the fruit of a drunk night for Paladin and a Nomad. It was unexpected, but not unwelcome. He knew Paladin loved children and had wanted his own, but hadn’t found the right woman.

Cai stepped forward, adding, “I have made her aware of what is expected of all members of Valhalla, including the learning of fighting. If it’s alright, I’m willing to take on the fight training. I think defensive may work best. It’s not attacking, just holding one’s own until help can come or the attacker gives up. We have larger predators like bears that have no survival instincts. They can and will enter wolf territories, and that’s bad news for pups.”

Partially he spoke to Audra as he explained, though he cast an arch look at Ardyn, who shuffled with a sheepish grin. Not even two and he already bore a few scars from his encounters with bears and one of the giant saber cats that had invaded the lands over the last year.

Walk ---- "Speak" ---- "Hear" ---- Think